It’s Not (Actually) Religion

Photography, I mean. The other day I got to listen third-hand to a discussion between two very passionate shooters that got a little heated. I’m not gonna mention what they were talking about, but lets say that the exchange reminded me of how car enthusiasts will occasionally gently discuss the differences between Ford and Chevy. I mean, both Ford and Chevy have their pros and cons; but step outside? Really? Both get you where you’re going, usually.

For just a second, I had an urge to be peacemaker, but quickly got over it; it was too entertaining just watching. It reminded me of something my father once said to me. “You never want to get into an argument with an idiot because the people watching can’t tell the difference.” Amen to that, brother!!

My workshop clients ask how I get that incredible light in my pictures, and I always tell them I made a deal with the devil…that the rainbow we were just shooting cost like, 2 months of my life. They think I’m kidding. (After doing some quick math in my head, I figure I should probably have already passed.)

In todays image, “EVENING ZEPHYRS”, I didn’t enquire until late in the day and all I could get were vague promises about “possibly dumping some color in the sky”. The sky looked eternally overcast, so I was a bit skeptical. I was traveling with a friend that I will call “Bob” (because thats his name) who bailed and went back to the truck to sleep – I told him about the possible color dump and all, but he just said “right” and left. I stayed and did the due diligence. (And while I waited I drank Mountain Dew, the caffeine in which helped me stay awake…. In other words, I did the Dew to do the due – diligence) The rest is history.

Canon 5DMII, 24-105 @ 24mm; 1/4th second @ f11

And just saying to the guys I saw earlier. ITS ABOUT THE IMAGE ! Ok, glad I got that out. And btw, I wouldn’t be caught dead in a Chevy OR a Ford. (just kidding of course)

Oh, and I guess if you’ve read this far you’ve already realized that I’ve never met an alliteration I didn’t like. Sadly, there’s no kidding about that.

George Stocking is a professional freelance photographer, residing in Phoenix, AZ. He works regularly as a contract photographer for Arizona Highways, and his work often graces the pages of Arizona Highways Magazine, Calendars and Books. His work has appeared in numerous other national publications. You can see more of his work on his website.